Kerala police expected to undergo major reshuffle

The Congress-led United Democratic Front government is likely to go for a major reshuffle in the state police department, highly placed sources in the chief minister's office said.

Chief Minister Oomen Chandy is, however, keen on retaining present Director General of Police Jacob Punnose in the law and order position. However, Additional Director General of Police intelligence Hemachandran is likely to be shunted to a new place, sources said.

The chief minister has decided to undertake the transfer process owing to competition among two senior ADGP ranking officers for the coveted post of intelligence chief.

While Chandy, who is in charge of the home portfolio, is not keen on replacing the five city police commissioners who were in charge when the election code of conduct was in place, there is pressure from the Congress party to remove these officers.

Until Monday, the general feeling was that the city police commissioner would stay, while other officers would be moved out.

Several Inspector General's are also likely to be replaced, as the Congress allies are keen on placing their own people in key positions.

There have been several allegations about infighting among senior police officers in Kerala. Former DGP, Sibi Mathews, who took voluntary retirement from the force to join as Chief Information Commissioner, told the media that he was victimised while in the force.

The chief minister, according to sources, has categorically told senior police officers that rivalry among officers would not be tolerated.